hors de combat

[ awr duh kawn-ba ]

adverb

, French.

1. out of the fight; disabled; no longer able to fight.

hors de combat

/ ɔr də kɔ̃ba /

adjective

1. disabled or injured

Word History and Origins

Origin of hors de combat¹

literally: out of (the) fight

Example Sentences

"I condemn in the strongest terms the killing of civilians and hors de combat individuals, and I am further appalled by the callous and disrespectful way the dead, along with their families and communities, were treated," said U.N.

From Reuters

The United Nations has not verified the authenticity of the statements, but the posts could still “provoke or encourage summary executions of prisoners of war or those hors de combat,” said Ravina Shamdasani, the spokeswoman for the United Nations human rights chief.

From New York Times

“Allegations of summary executions of people hors de combat should be promptly, fully and effectively investigated, and any perpetrators held to account.”

From New York Times

Under international law, the French term “hors de combat” refers to people who are “outside of combat” because of their surrender, being unarmed, unconscious or otherwise unable to defend themselves.

From New York Times

“They’re considered hors de combat, or noncombatants — effectively prisoners of war,” Dr. Haar said.

From New York Times